Urologic Oncology Program

Mission

Surgeons in the Department of Urology at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, in collaboration with colleagues from other specialties, manage one of the largest genitourinary cancer patient populations in the country.  All types of genitourinary cancer as well as nonmalignant tumors of the urinary tract and male reproductive system are evaluated and treated.  Multimodal therapy is emphasized, including complex surgical procedures, with careful attention given to quality-of-life issues.  Every treatment plan includes consideration of how normal body functions can be maintained or restored after surgery.  Surgical reconstruction is provided when appropriate.  Selected surgeons in the department perform minimally invasive surgery, including cryosurgical, laparoscopic, and robotic procedures.

An ever-increasing number of patients benefit from the institution’s pioneering research and innovative clinical care; many anticancer drugs and radiotherapy methods widely used now were developed or perfected by our clinicians.  Several biological agents and inhibitors of critical molecular pathways are currently being tested in the treatment of genitourinary cancers.  Proton beam therapy, new surgical lasers, and non-surgical technologies are extending treatment options for some patients while reducing adverse side effects for many others.

Our goal, always, is to provide state-of-the-art care today while working to develop what will be state-of-the-art tomorrow.